Data shows Omicron variant driving third wave of pandemic across states

Official sources indicated on Saturday that the fast-spreading Omicron strain is driving the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout all states, citing the latest data.

Until a few days ago, the Omicron version was responsible for the majority of Covid cases in the western part of the nation, while the Delta variation was prevalent in the northeastern states of West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
According to a source, the most recent data indicates that all eastern states have reported large numbers of Omicron cases.

“So going by that it can be said that the third wave of COVID-19 pandemic across all states is being driven by the fast-spreading and highly transmissible Omicron variant,” the source said.

India saw a single-day rise of 1,41,986 new coronavirus infections taking the total case tally to 3,53,68,372, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

The government has reiterated and urged people to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and avoid mass gatherings.

The Centre has also asked states and union territories to review infrastructure preparedness, including re-establishment of field/makeshift hospital facilities to avoid any shortage in the eventuality of a potential surge in hospital admissions due to COVID-19.